Applicability Checker
Interactive compliance checker based on Algerian Executive Decree 21-261, with a plain-language summary so you understand exactly what is required and why.
Understanding the ESP & APE Regulation
What this decree is, who it affects, and what it demands, explained without technical jargon.
What is DE 21-261?
Executive Decree 21-261 of 22 July 2021 governs the design, manufacture, installation, operation and periodic inspection of pressure equipment (ESP: Pressure Equipment) and equivalent pressure apparatus (APE) in Algeria. It supersedes older regulation and aligns Algerian law with European PED 97/23/EC principles.
Who must comply?
Any operator or owner of boilers, pressure vessels, pressure piping, and pressure accessories in Algeria, across oil & gas, power, chemicals, food, pharmaceuticals and all other industrial sectors. The decree covers manufacturers, importers, installers and operators alike.
What is required?
Depending on equipment category (I to IV), obligations range from basic internal documentation to compulsory third-party design examination and periodic inspection by a Type A accredited body. Higher categories carry stricter assessment modules and shorter inspection intervals.
Group 1: Dangerous Fluids
Stricter thresholdsEquipment containing these fluids reaches higher categories at lower PS×V values:
- Explosive or extremely flammable (flashpoint below 55°C)
- Highly toxic or toxic substances
- Oxidising agents
- Flammable or toxic gases
- Substances dangerous to the environment in high concentrations
Examples: hydrocarbons, H₂, Cl₂, NH₃, H₂S, LPG, sour gas, benzene, methanol
Group 2: Non-Dangerous Fluids
Higher exempt limitsAll fluids not classified as Group 1. Higher PS×V products are needed to reach the regulated categories:
- Water and steam (below 500°C)
- Compressed air
- Nitrogen and inert gases (Ar, He, CO₂)
- Non-flammable, non-toxic industrial gases
- Hydraulic fluid (non-dangerous)
Examples: steam boilers, hot water heaters, compressed-air receivers, N₂ buffer tanks
Vessel Classification Matrix: PS × V (bar·L)
PS = Maximum Allowable Pressure in bar · V = Volume in litres
| Category | Group 1: PS×V | Group 2: PS×V | Module(s) | Inspection cycle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exempt | ≤ 25 bar·L | ≤ 200 bar·L | None | None required |
| Category II | 25 – 200 bar·L | 200 – 1 000 bar·L | A / A1 | Every 5 years |
| Category III | 200 – 10 000 bar·L | 1 000 – 10 000 bar·L | B+D / B+E / H | Every 3 yrs + 10yr internal |
| Category IV | > 10 000 bar·L | > 10 000 bar·L | B+D / G / H1 | Every 2 yrs + 10yr internal |
Pipeline classification uses PS×DN (bar·mm). Boilers are automatically Category IV regardless of PS or volume. Compressor bodies are classified by PS×Qv (bar·m³/h) using the nominal inlet flow rate.
Check Your Equipment
Enter your equipment data. The tool applies the exact thresholds defined in Decree 21-261 and tells you your category, obligations, and inspection interval.
Step 1: Equipment Type
Step 2: Pressure
Use the Maximum Allowable Working Pressure (MAWP / PS marked on nameplate)
What the Conformity Modules Mean
Decree 21-261 uses a modular approach to conformity assessment. Each module imposes specific obligations on the manufacturer or operator.
Internal Production Control
Performed by: Manufacturer
Manufacturer designs and produces to applicable standards, compiles a technical file, and issues a declaration of conformity. No third-party involvement is required.
EU/DZ Type Examination
Performed by: Accredited Body
An accredited body examines the technical design and issues a type-examination certificate. Always combined with another module (D, E, or F) for the production phase.
Production Quality Assurance
Performed by: Accredited Body
Accredited body assesses and surveys the manufacturer's quality management system for production. Normally paired with Module B.
Unit Verification
Performed by: Accredited Body
Each individual unit is examined and tested by the accredited body. Used for one-off or small-series high-risk equipment where a type certificate is not practical.
Full Quality Assurance
Performed by: Accredited Body
Comprehensive quality system for design, production, and final inspection, all approved and surveilled by the accredited body in a single module.
Full QA + Design Examination
Performed by: Accredited Body
Same as Module H with additional specific design examination by the accredited body. Reserved for the highest-risk Category IV equipment.
Equipment Excluded from DE 21-261
The decree does not cover everything. Knowing the exclusions is as important as knowing the inclusions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plain answers to common compliance questions about Decree 21-261.
Need a Full Compliance Assessment?
Our certified inspectors can review your entire equipment register, classify each item, and establish a compliant inspection programme under DE 21-261, from technical file review to on-site periodic inspection and reporting.